Understanding Bacterial Skin Infections: Symptoms and Treatments

Bacterial skin infections are caused by harmful bacteria entering the skin, leading to a variety of conditions that require medical attention.
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Skin Infections | Bacterial Conditions | Medical Treatment | Symptoms | Treatment Options
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Bacterial Skin Infections FAQ


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What is a bacterial skin infection?

Bacterial skin infections occur when bacteria enter through the surface of the skin. They can cause symptoms such as swelling and inflammation. Treatment may include topical or oral antibiotics. Experts classify bacterial skin infections as skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) or acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSI).

What are the different types of bacteria causing skin infections?

Many types of bacteria can infect the skin. The most common are Staphylococcus and Streptococcus . Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (also known as MRSA ) is a common bacteria causing skin infections in the United States.

What causes a skin infection?

Skin infections can be caused by bacteria (often Staphylococcal or Streptococcal) either invading normal skin, or affecting a compromised skin barrier (eg, skin affected by atopic dermatitis, or surgical wound sites ). The skin is our first line of protection against the environment.

What are the signs and symptoms of bacterial skin infections?

Bacterial skin infections can result in diverse clinical presentations. Generally, they will present with erythema, pain, warmth, swelling, and, depending on severity, dysfunction. Purulent discharge and lymphadenopathy may also be evident on examination. In severe infections, the following signs may be present: Crepitus .

Bacterial Skin Infections References

If you want to know more about Bacterial Skin Infections, consider exploring links below:

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